Approximately 130,000 people in Pennsylvania have ankylosing spondylitis. This disease is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the joints and ligaments of the spine. There is no known cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but most people do very well on medications. Some people find it nearly impossible to keep moving and may find it difficult to hold a job. Therefore, Social Security Disability Insurance may be able to help.
Requirements for qualifying for SSDI
Adults with ankylosing spondylitis can qualify for SSDI if they have 40 credits earned through their work history over the last 10 years. Most adults will need 40 credits, with each $1,640 income counting as one credit in 2023. You must prove that your ankylosing spondylitis is severe enough that you can no longer work.
Submitting evidence for SSDI
You must apply to Social Security to start the process. You will need your birth certificate or citizenship papers, medical reports, military records, evidence of worker’s compensation payments if applicable, social security numbers for everyone in your household and your checking or savings account number. If possible, include bloodwork showing that you have HLA-B27, the genetic mutation found in 85% of people with ankylosing spondylitis.
When to expect a SSDI decision
Once you have submitted your paperwork, it can take the team up to 20 weeks to decide. During that time, you may be requested to see their doctor. The team decides based only on your paperwork, so carefully fill it out. Making mistakes can slow down the process.
If you can no longer work because of ankylosing spondylitis, you may qualify for SSDI payments to help pay your bills.